US President Donald Trump has escalated his criticism of Pope Leo XIV, stating that the pontiff is endangering many Catholics, just days before Secretary of State Marco Rubio is scheduled to visit Vatican City.
Trump's Accusations
In an interview with commentator Hugh Hewitt on Monday, Trump accused the first American-born pope of making the world less safe through his remarks on immigration and the Iran conflict. The president claimed that the pope would rather discuss the possibility of Iran having a nuclear weapon, adding that this stance endangers Catholics and others.
However, the pontiff has consistently called for peace talks and criticized military escalation, including Trump's warnings of strikes that could target civilians during tensions with Iran. The pope responded to Trump's criticism by stating that the Catholic Church has spoken out against all nuclear weapons for years, leaving no doubt about its position.
Pope's Defense
The pope maintained that his views are rooted in Biblical and Church teachings, not political opposition to Trump. He emphasized that the mission of the church is to preach the Gospel and peace, and anyone criticizing him for doing so should do so with the truth.
These remarks come ahead of Rubio's scheduled meetings in Vatican City on Thursday. Rubio, a practicing Catholic, is expected to visit both Rome and the Vatican during the trip, according to the State Department.
Previous Attacks
Trump had earlier attacked the pope on social media over comments on US immigration policies and deportations, calling him soft on crime and terrorism. The pope responded by stating that God does not listen to the prayers of those who make war.
Tensions flared after Trump posted and then deleted an image on social media of himself as Jesus Christ, which drew criticism from critics and religious groups. Trump later said he thought the image depicted him as a doctor.
International Reactions
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, considered a close Trump ally, reportedly objected to the US president's comments on the pope. Meanwhile, Trump has intensified criticism of NATO allies over insufficient support during the Iran conflict, amid reports that the Pentagon plans to reduce troop presence in Germany in the coming months.
